OGALLALA, Neb. — For the first time ever, the skies over Ogallala will light up tonight with a high-tech twist as the city hosts an Independence Weekend drone show in place of its traditional fireworks display.
The event is set to begin around 10 p.m. Mountain Time at the Western Diamond Sports Complex — the longtime launch site for Ogallala’s July 4th celebrations. Weather permitting, the drone display will fill the night sky with colorful formations choreographed to a music soundtrack broadcast on Flatrock 100.7 FM.
The show is produced by Fantasy Drone Shows, a Nebraska-based company from Norfolk that has gained national attention for its dynamic aerial performances. Just last night, the company put on shows in Provo, Utah; St. Louis, Missouri; and Basalt, Colorado as part of Fourth of July festivities. Fantasy Drone Shows also wowed thousands at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln last year with a large-scale drone presentation.
City officials say they are excited to bring this new form of celebration to Ogallala residents and visitors, marking a move toward a more environmentally friendly and pet-safe alternative to fireworks, especially during what has been a dry summer thus far in Keith County.
Spectators, including those camping at Lake McConaughy, are encouraged to arrive early, bring lawn chairs or blankets, and tune in to the radio to enjoy the full experience.